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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and computers to produce detailed images of the body’s internal structures. It’s a safe way for doctors to get an inside look at the body’s bones, organs and tissues – without using radiation. It may be used to help diagnose or monitor treatment for a variety of conditions in the chest, abdomen and pelvis. It’s particularly useful for evaluating soft tissues like ligaments and tendons, as well as the spinal cord. MRI also is a safe way to monitor pregnant patients and their babies.

Open MRI at Carolinas Imaging Services - Rock Hill

At Carolinas Imaging Services, we’re committed to making your MRI experience as comfortable as possible. Our Rock Hill location offers an Open MRI machine, which provides patients with a more open, less confining alternative for diagnostic imaging. This advanced technology helps reduce anxiety during your scan and offers extra room, making it ideal for patients who may require special accommodations. With its open design, you can relax while still receiving the high-quality imaging necessary for accurate diagnosis and care.

MRI technology is also used to generate a list of imaging studies, including  MR Angiography, Neuroquant and MR Enterography.

Icon Doctor   Doctor Referral Required

Request an Appointment

Call us at 704-442-4390  or complete the form below:

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  • Please check all that apply
  • *X-Rays are completed on a walk-in basis at any Carolinas Imaging Services (CIS) location. You do not need to schedule an appointment.

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FAQ

What should I expect? Expand

During an MRI scan, you’ll lie comfortably on your back on a table that is moved inside of a large magnet. A piece of equipment called a "coil," which sends and receives radio frequency waves, will be placed around the area of your body that’s being examined. During the scan, as with all MRI exams, you will hear various noises, ranging from a buzzing to a loud knocking. We’ll provide earplugs, or in some cases music, to help with the noise.

Because an MRI exam takes images (or "slices") from various angles, several sets of images will be taken, each lasting from one to 10 minutes. It’s important to lie very still during each sequence in order to produce clear, diagnostic images.The total exam time can range from 30 to 60 minutes.

Depending on your symptoms or prior medical history, you may be given a contrast medium via IV, which can improve visibility for physicians. The technologist will explain this procedure to you if necessary.

Charlotte Radiology offers two types of MRI scans: Closed MRI and Open Bore MRI. Both are an effective way to perform the exam, however they utilize different machine shapes, sizes and magnet strengths. Please talk to your doctor about which may be the better option for your exam.

 

How do I prepare? Expand

Since you will be positioned within a large, very strong magnet, you must remove all loose metal objects. Doing so is important for your safety and the safety of our staff, and to ensure proper functioning of the equipment. You may be asked to change into a gown or scrubs unless you are wearing clothing that is metal-free. Please let us know ahead of time if any of the following applies to you:

  • Cardiac Pacemaker
  • Artificial heart valve prosthesis
  • Eye Implants or metal ear implants
  • Any metal implants activated electronically, magnetically, or mechanically
  • Aneurysm clips
  • Copper 7 IUD
  • Penile implant
  • Shrapnel or non-removed bullet
  • Pregnancy
  • Claustrophobia
  • Any metal puncture(s) or fragment(s) in the eye

If fasting is necessary for your procedure, you’ll be instructed well in advance. Patients not receiving sedation should arrive 30 minutes prior to the exam time in order to register. If your procedure has been scheduled with sedation or anesthesia, please arrive 1 hour prior to the exam time. Do not take prescribed sedation medications until you are instructed to do so by the technologist. If you have any questions about your medications, please call the center where you are being scanned and ask to speak with a technologist. All patients receiving sedation must have someone with them to drive them home after the procedure.

When will I get the results? Expand

One of our subspecialized physicians will review your scan and send a report to your physician within 48 hours. Your physician will contact you to discuss the results.

Which locations offer MRI? Expand

Carolinas Imaging Services – Ballantyne
Carolinas Imaging Services – Huntersville
Carolinas Imaging Services – Rock Hill
Carolinas Imaging Services – SouthPark
Atrium Imaging of Indian Trail
Anson Community Hospital
Carolinas Medical Center
Atrium Health – Lincoln
Atrium Health – Mercy
Atrium Health – Pineville
Atrium Health – Union
Atrium Health – University
Davis Regional Medical Center
Morehead Imaging Center
Richmond Memorial Hospital
Scotland Memorial Hospital
Atrium Health – Northeast Outpatient Imaging at Copperfield
Atrium Health – Northeast
Atrium Health – Northeast MRI Imaging
Union West MRI Center

How do I schedule a MRI? Expand

This procedure requires a physician referral. Typically your referring physician will schedule an appointment for you. If you have been asked to schedule the appointment yourself, please have your physician's order and any pre-authorization information required by your insurance or health plan provider in hand, and call 704-442-4390.

What about billing and/or insurance coverage? Expand

Please check with your insurance plan to confirm that the procedure is covered. You may be responsible for all or a portion of the bill.  Payment may be required at the time of service. For questions regarding insurance coverage, and/or billing please call 704-362-7020.

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